Former sports turf lecturer Bradley Tennant heads up the delivery of the GroundsFest Academy, designed to provide free education for anyone working in groundscare and landscaping. Tennant has years of industry experience having begun his career as an apprentice gardener he is now head groundsperson at Swindon Supermarine Football Club.
He will be speaking on HortWeek's Horticulture Question Time panel.
Join us on September 10 in the Landscape Zone in the HortWeek seminar area at GroundsFest at 11am.
This essential event is sponsored by Bourne Amenity and Hillier Nurseries.
You’re on the Horticulture Question Time panel at GroundsFest this year – why should visitors come along to listen?
This is a fantastic opportunity to ask questions to a panel of industry leaders with different backgrounds. It's not often this amount of experience is sitting ready to answer your questions, so make the most of it!
What’s your role at GroundsFest and experience within the industry?
I am the director of education at the GroundsFest Academy, with nearly 15 years of experience across multiple disciplines within horticulture and a strong background in sports turf. I've worked overseas, from Australia to Germany, and at some of the world's most iconic venues, including The Belfry and Wembley Stadium. Over the last few years, I've had the opportunity to give back by sharing my knowledge and experience through sports turf and greenkeeping apprenticeships.
What can we expect from GroundsFest Academy in the coming months/years?
The Academy has already made a positive impact on the industry. Over the coming months and years, you'll continue to see the Academy grow. Introducing, educating, entertaining and hoping to open doors to new opportunities for all within the sector. Our 8 free yearly educational days will be a highlight of the training calendar to address skill and knowledge gaps we have identified across the industry.
Considering the current challenges within the landscape and amenity sector, how is GroundsFest working to address these?
Firstly, we're working with schools, colleges and ex-service to help bring new members into our fantastic industry. Educating those joining us and existing peers. Then, helping to retain by showcasing the opportunities worldwide, like those offered by International Greenkeepers.
What are you most looking forward to at GroundsFest 2025?
There is a range of things to look forward to this year at GroundsFest, one of the highlights for me will be the lawn mower racing. But there's so much more, we have live demonstrations and practical hands-on experiences outdoors with equipment, and not to forget 'Oasis' (Definitely Mightbe)!
